FIBROMYALGIA HELP

Fibromyalgia (FM): generalized musculoskeletal pain, aches, stiffness, and tenderness.  FM is a fairly common complaint, primarily affects middle aged women and has been associated with irritable bowel syndrome, tension headache, mitral valve (heart valve) prolapse and chronic fatigue syndrome.   

Research suggests FM results from local muscle hypoxia  (inadequate muscle tissue oxygen).  FM patients consistently have low muscle and tissue oxygen levels. Biopsies show affected muscles have tissue breakdown and mitochondrial damage.  Mitochondria are the power centers of cells, providing energy to move, divide and produce secretory products.  These findings, and others, are suspected to be the reasons for the muscle pains associated with FM.    

Malic acid is derived from food and synthesized in the body through the Krebs (citric acid) cycle. Malic acid’s importance in the production of energy is well established.  During aerobic conditions it interacts with mitochondria through the malate-aspartate shuttle.  During anaerobic conditions malic acid speeds the removal of  toxic waste buildup in the muscles.  Malic acid may improve energy production and reduce hypoxia in FM patients.  Many athletes use malic acid for pain reduction and energy production.  Malic acid has been found useful for treating chronic fatigue syndrome.  

Malic acid gives fruits their tangy flavor.  Apples are consistently the primary source of malic acid on food charts.  Malic acid contains no vitamins, minerals, protein or carbohydrates.  Whole foods won’t relieve pain or increase energy in ten minutes or less, but if you’re in life for the long haul, they make a lot more health and economic sense.

Apples contain the bioflavonoid quercetin. Quercetin, found mostly in the apple's skin, has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.  Apples are high in antioxidants which help protect your cells against free radical damage.  Free radicals are believed to play an active role in causing many degenerative diseases.  Apples may help combat diseases such as cardiovascular disease and arthritis.  Apples contain magnesium, iron, phosphorus, sulfur and potassium.